The Hill Top Juvenile Correctional Centre is situated in Bamboo, St. Ann.
It is a maximum security Institution for male children who have committed offences against the law.
In the late 1930’s American soldiers recognized the advantage offered by the location of Hill Top as a look-out point for the area. The soldiers established camp which was later used as a police post. In later years the camp was transformed into a prison for young male offenders
The present structure was built by both inmate and staff as part of the structural change to accommodate more inmates and increase security
In 1973 there was a significant increase in the number of Juvenile offender, and the authorities saw the need to separate them from the other habitual offenders. Hill Top became an approved school under the Children Services Division.
Population
Hill Top Juvenile Correctional Centre has a capacity to accommodate ninety-eight (98) wards, but based on the number of boys who have offended, there is sometimes over on hundred (100) wards at the institution. The wards placed in three (3) dormitories. This institution was especially designed to accommodate older boys who have committed serious offences and who are considered high risk
Rehabilitation Programmes
Hill Top Juvenile Correctional Centre provides an environment which caters to the educational, social, emotional and spiritual needs of the wards. All boys are exposed to academic training up to the Secondary School Certificate Level.
There is a strong emphasis placed on Vocational Training therefore wards are introduced to various skill areas. The skills taught include auto mechanic, metal craft, electrical installation and agriculture.
A behavior modification programme is in place which seeks to help the wards with their adjustment to positive change in behaviour. The programme is pursued through case work intervention and social programmes.
Spiritual guidance is provided by members of the chaplaincy and local churches that make regular visits. Devotion is held each morning and is conducted by staff members.
